While most rap acts seem to lose their flavor faster than a stick of Juicy Fruit, LL Cool J has been a player since he first crashed the big time at 17. Two decades and 12 albums later, his latest release is a classy, first-rate hip-hop record that’ll cut heads with the work of the most skilled contemporary MCs, from Kanye West to Jay Z.

The secret to this disc – and LL’s longevity – is that he knows to keep the beats fast and varied, adding lyrics with humor and truth. Maybe his desire to keep it real is why he chose to use his given name as the record title.

The album’s refreshing because it avoids gangsta Glock-cocking and puppy-love candy raps. Instead, LL delivers a classic, must-hear collection whose tracks alternate between party music and sultry lover-man rhymes. He’s an adult who acts his age and makes exciting music. Giving him a hand on this disc are hip-hop elite such as Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Lopez, Jamie Foxx, Ginuwine and Teairra Mari, among others.

Download: “Control Myself”

PRETTY GIRLS MAKE GRAVES

“Elan Vital” (Matador)

(3 STARS )

This Seattle quintet displays newfound confi-dence on its most elaborate and diverse collection yet. While their brand of rock doesn’t demand dancing, there’s a constant undercurrent of power, especially in the fire-and-ice vocals of frontwoman Andrea Zollo. Download: “Pearls on a Plate”

TOBY KEITH

“White Trash With Money” (Show Dog)

(one and a half stars)

Hat act Toby Keith’s songwriting pockets are empty here. After two spins, you can’t help but feel he’s coasting. Most of these new songs are bloated with orchestration or are syrupy ballads. This cowboy has forgotten how to write a tight, snappy twanger. Download: “Get Drunk and Be Somebody”

BABYSHAMBLES

“Down in Albion” (Rough Trade)

(three and a half stars)

FORMER Libertine Pete Doherty’s life is a drug-addled disaster. But even in the few missteps that “Albion” takes, there are clear signs of his genius. It’s filled with sparkling songs, including the title track and the Clash-ish “Killamangiro.” This is Brit-pop at its best. Download: “Down in Albion”